CEC urges election observers to maintain strict impartiality

Chief Election Commissioner AMM Nasir Uddin has urged all election observers to uphold the highest standards of transparency and impartiality as they carry out their duties for the 13th Jatiya Sangsad elections.

“Those working on the ground must remain completely neutral and ensure that everyone under your supervision understands that the Election Commission has one goal—to deliver a fair and credible election to the nation. Upholding neutrality is our collective national responsibility, and we will fulfil it with integrity,” he said.

The CEC made the remarks during a dialogue with representatives of 40 observation organisations at the Election Commission Bhaban in Agargaon today.

He said the Commission will run its own monitoring system during the election but also wants to “see the election through the eyes” of observers. “Field-level observers must inform us whether the process is being conducted transparently and whether the electoral code of conduct and relevant laws are being properly followed. Those you deploy must not influence any party’s campaign—you must ensure this. Their duty is to observe, not interfere,” he cautioned.

Reaffirming the Commission’s commitment to a fair, credible and well-managed election, he said this responsibility cannot be fulfilled by the EC alone. “This is a national responsibility we must carry together. We intend to learn from the past and move forward.”

The CEC said observers will play an essential role throughout the electoral cycle: “You will report on campaign activities, polling centre management, the performance of presiding officers and police, and whether voters face any obstruction. Your reports must be completely truthful—much depends on the accuracy of your observations.”

He encouraged observers to point out any shortcomings in the Commission’s management and offer recommendations for improvement. “Your suggestions will guide our future actions. Our aim is to conduct the election with full transparency in a voter-friendly environment,” he added.

Election Commissioners Brig Gen (retd) Abul Fazal Md Sanaullah, Abdur Rahmanel Masud, Tahmida Ahmed, Md Anwarul Islam Sarkar, Senior Secretary Akhtar Ahmed and other senior officials were present at the dialogue.